DOHA: Bin bags, candy wrappers, old newspapers, CDs and shopping bags were turned into fashionable apparels for a unique fashion show titled ‘Junk Deluxe’ which opened the week-long art exhibition of Compass International School Doha at the Grand Hyatt Hotel yesterday.

“One Planet, One Future’ is the theme of the fashion show and art exhibition held ahead of World Environment Day which falls tomorrow.

It was a sight to behold as young students paraded wearing the clothes they created themselves as a way of raising awareness among people of the significance of taking care of the environment for the future. The 24 handmade apparel by Grades 7 to 9 students showcased how far the young minds could reach in looking for the right materials to recycle and transforming them into clothes using varied techniques to drive in the message of saving Mother Earth.

Over 30 art works of the students are also on display at the exhibition which was opened by the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari.

The art works were a product of months-long project in Art and Design classes exploring environmental issues wherein each student was asked to produce a piece of art work personal to them and captured the essence of environmental themes ranging from recycling, energy conservation, flora and fauna in danger, and climate change among others.

“I think it is really important to make lessons current, relevant and exciting to engage students and enhance learning in the classroom,” said art teacher Mhairi McAinsh, who was behind the event.

The event, which features students’ works created in a wide variety of materials and techniques expressing their individual interpretations of “One Planet, One Future”, was inspired by the pioneering vision of the school’s late head teacher Julian Cottenden, who was a keen environmentalist. Open to the public, “One Planet, One Future” exhibition will run until June 10.

The Peninsula

BY RAYNALD C RIVERA

Link to Peninsula

Link to Art Exhibition website